Skunk Cleaner Antenna Clipped

[BurlyWizard]

Hi all,

I've had a skunk cleaner shrimp in a tank with only 2 emerald crabs for about 11 days. So far, no issues. I have been monitoring closely and have seen no fighting or aggression. When the cleaner shrimp gets close to the emerald crabs, they'll lift their claws and when an antenna reaches the crab, the shrimp just stops and goes another direction.

However, after about 11 days together, I'm starting to notice the cleaner shrimp's antennas getting shorter and shorter, and in the process, looking "cracked" or bent (see pics). I have to assume the crabs are getting to it at night.

A few things I knew from past research that aren't the purpose of this thread:

• Shrimp antennae will grow back - not worried about that
• All crabs are opportunistic feeders and can behave inconsistently
• Emerald crabs have picked on fish, shrimp, etc. plenty of times

Knowing the above, is it possible that this is just a relationship that is being worked out, and that the shrimp may get nicked in the antenna, but they could get used to each other over time and learn to play nice? Or is it only a matter of time before the antennas get short enough and the shrimp is done for? I know I can play it safe and just remove the crabs, but if they could be "working it out", I'd like to try to keep them together.

Thanks in advance

 

[PAreefer710]

Emerald crabs are a pain, as are cleaner shrimp in my opinion. Especially if ya plan on getting corals. But I don’t think they’ll “work it out”

 

[tautog83]

You shouldnt worry about it , you're emerald crab isnt goingg to chase down your shrimp and eat it . Next molt everything will be good . It's good to be concerned but just not with this